India calls Hamas assault on Israel 'terrorist attack', advocates talks for independent Palestine
PTC News Desk: India stated on Thursday that the Hamas attack on Israel was a "terrorist attack" and that it has long called for the resumption of direct negotiations to establish a sovereign, independent, and viable state of Palestine that coexists peacefully with Israel.
Responding to questions about the situation in the Israel-Hamas war during the weekly media briefing, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said there is a universal obligation to uphold international humanitarian law and the need to combat terrorism.
"Designation of terrorist organisation under Indian law is a legal matter. I would refer you to the relevant authorities. I think we have been very clear that we see this as a terrorist attack. On designation part (concerned) authorities are best placed to respond to it," Bagchi said.
He further stated that India's stand concerning the Palestine issue has been "longstanding and consistent".
"India has always advocated the resumption of direct negotiations towards establishing a sovereign, independent and viable state of Palestine living within secure and recognised borders side by side at peace with Israel. That position remains the same."
When asked about the issue, Bagchi stated that there is a universal need to follow international humanitarian law.
"There is also global responsibility to fight the menace of terrorism in all its manifestations," he added.
According to The Times of Israel, the death toll in Israel since the Hamas assault has risen to 1,300, with 3300 injured, including 28 in critical condition and 350 in serious condition.
According to the report, the fate of an estimated 150 people who have been captured and taken to the Gaza Strip after Hamas's assault is still unknown.
According to CNN, approximately 1300 people were killed and 5,000 were injured in Gaza as Israel launched a robust counterattack against attack by Hamas.
- ANI
